Joe Flacco Named Browns Starter—Is Shedeur Sanders Left Behind? | NFL Wires
The Cleveland Browns are expected to start veteran Joe Flacco in Week 1 — and that decision could leave rookie Shedeur Sanders on the sideline. Explore what it means for both QBs and the team’s future on NFL Wires.
Introduction: Flacco 1.0, Sanders 0?
Amidst a crowded quarterback room in Cleveland, veteran Joe Flacco has officially climbed to the top of the depth chart, expected to start Week 1. This decision puts rookie Shedeur Sanders—a top draft buzz QB and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders—on the outskirts, creating tension in a competition that captivated fans. Let’s unpack why Flacco got the nod and how this affects Sanders's path forward.
Why Flacco Wins Week 1
Veteran stability and recent success sealed Flacco's position:
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Signed a one-year deal in April, he quickly impressed at OTAs and minicamp
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In late 2023, Flacco led Cleveland to four wins, including a 300+ passing streak and playoff berth, showcasing proven performance .
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GM Andrew Berry emphasized an open QB competition but confirmed Flacco took most first-team snaps.
His veteran presence and comfort under pressure made the simplest early decision for Week 1.
Shedeur Sanders: Rising Star, Delayed Launch?
Despite draft-day excitement around Sanders, the rookie faces a tougher road:
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Drafted in Round 5, he's behind Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel on the depth chart. His preseason aura grows—fans noticed detailed footwork and confidence in practice drills .
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When asked if he’d start right away, Sanders replied simply, “We got preseason first.”
Rather than bow out, he’s embracing patience and preparation.
What’s Next for Sanders
With Flacco set for Week 1, Sanders’s focus turns to:
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Preseason play – Show adaptability under real game situations.
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Mentorship – Learn from Flacco’s experience in the QB room.
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Strategic timing – Cleveland could rotate QBs during the season to accelerate his development
It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
NFL Wires Final Take
Cleveland’s decision balances short-term results with long-term promise. Flacco secures Week 1 for credibility; Sanders, with polished attitude and high potential, remains a strategic bet. It’s a careful build-up for the future, not a snub.
Stay tuned to NFL Wires as we track Cleveland’s QB development, preseason performances, and Shedeur Sanders’s journey toward the starting role.
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